When some people, i.e. outsiders, think of Nevada, images of the flat and vast desert come to mind for many. However, those who actually live in Nevada know that our state is home to a variety of landscapes, including mountains. Lots and lots of mountains. In fact, Nevada is one of the most mountainous states in the contiguous U.S., and we couldn’t be more proud of our plethora of peaks. Today we’d like to feature a widely underrated mountain range in our state, the Ruby Mountains, and tell you exactly why you need to explore them.
A downright picturesque mountain range in northern Nevada, the Ruby Mountains are an adventurer's dream come true. Also known as "the Alps of Nevada," the Rubies are a severely underrated mountain range that you should definitely set your sights on.
Stretching for 80 miles through Elko County and some of White Pine County, the Rubies are an absolute gem. Full of alpine lakes, streams, wildlife, and lush valleys, this is Nevada wilderness at its absolute finest.
The Ruby Mountains were so named for the plentiful gems that early explorers often found in the mountain range. These gems actually turned out to be garnets, not rubies, but the name obviously stuck.
The Ruby Mountains are some of the most visually impressive mountains in the Silver State. They tower over the surrounding landscape and boast elevations of up to 11,387-feet. The highest point in the range is Ruby Dome, located about 21 miles southeast of Elko.
Other major features within the mountain range include Lamoille Canyon, Seitz Canyon, and Box Canyon. Featuring delicate wildflowers and vibrant foliage, exploring these little-known canyons is always a treat.
In fact, there are plenty of ways to explore the Rubies, like the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail. Open to backpackers and horseback riders, the trail meanders for 40 miles from Harrison Pass to the Road's End trailhead in Lamoille Canyon.
The Ruby Mountains may just be the most gorgeous mountain range that most people outside of Nevada haven't heard of and that's just fine with us. These underrated peaks will gladly remain our little secret.
